Clarifying the natural state

This practice, central to both Dzogchen and Mahamudra, involves recognizing that the ordinary mind, when left in its natural state without modification, is itself the enlightened mind.

The "natural state" is not something to create or achieve but simply to recognize and allow. It is the mind's condition when nothing is added or subtracted—when we stop trying to meditate, stop trying to be spiritual, stop trying to improve the present moment.

Clarifying the natural state means removing the obscurations that prevent recognition—not through effort but through relaxation, not through manipulation but through trust. When all seeking stops, what remains is the natural state that was always present.

Begin by relaxing completely. Let go of any agenda, including the agenda of meditation. Don't try to stop thoughts or achieve a state. Simply let the mind be as it is. Notice that when nothing is added or subtracted, the mind naturally rests—open, aware, at ease. This is the natural state.

The main obstacle is subtle effort—trying to not try, seeking to not seek. The natural state is revealed when all strategies cease. Another obstacle is mistaking a dull, blank state for the natural state, which is actually vivid and aware. A third is not trusting that this simple presence is enough.